Class B Sprinter RV Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know

Owning a Class B RV means embracing freedom, flexibility, and adventure—but to keep the good times rolling, regular maintenance is key. These off-grid camper vans pack a lot into a small footprint, blending drivability with livability. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Class B RV maintenance, from essential routine checks to long-term care tips. Whether you're new to van life or a seasoned road warrior, staying on top of maintenance ensures your rig runs reliably, safely, and efficiently—so you can focus on the journey ahead.

Proactive Effort Goes A Long Way

Being proactive with your Class B RV maintenance is all about safety, reliability, longevity, and overall avoiding costly, preventable repair jobs.

Class B RV Chassis Maintenance

When we start talking about DIY maintenance, we know at times it can get complex. Luckily the first item on this list is probably something you're already doing: checking your tire pressure regularly.

Basic Camper Van Maintenance

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Do this at least monthly and before each trip using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Proper tire inflation saves on fuel costs and prevents blowouts.

To find out what pressure your Class B RV tires should be inflated to, head over to the driver's side door and check just inside the door. There should be a white sticker that will show you the manufacturer recommended inflation settings for your camper van tires.

Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage

Now that you've tested your tire pressure, begin to check your tires themselves for any major damage or uneven wear.

Look for cracks, bulges, uneven wear, and any objects that may have gotten lodged in your tire on your last adventure. If any of the above items are found, we recommend replacing the tire ASAP to avoid future blowouts.

Check Your Engine Oil

Check the color and fill levels of your engine oil before each trip! Check your oil regularly and change it based on Mercedes Benz's A and B service intervals.

Check Your DEF Fluid Levels

On your Sprinter's readout screen, locate the DEF level chart. Be sure to check this level often and add additional fluid when you are prompted to do so.

Test Your Lighting Systems

Be sure before you start your next adventure, be sure to test out your lights! Test your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, marker lights, and any other lighting accessories you've added to your van. All of these lighting systems should be functioning in order to maintain safety and legality.

Now that you've determined that your fluid levels are full, tires are looking good, and all lighting is working, do a quick walkaround the van. Keep note of any follow up items that need to be fixed such as wiper blades.

Class B RV Systems Maintenance

Now that we've talked generally about the basics of camper van maintenance, let's get into the systems and how to ensure they are all functioning properly and are well maintained.

Fresh Water Tank Maintenance

Be sure to purge and clean your camper van's fresh water system frequently! This is especially important if you are storing water long term.

Gray Water Tank Maintenance

You should also be sanitizing your van's gray water system frequently. To sanitize your gray water system, use a gallon of a bleach + water solution.

Water Heater Maintenance

Drain your water heater, and flush it annually, to avoid buildup of sediment that can lead to additional wear and tear on this camper van system.

Water Fixture Maintenance

It can be difficult to directly inspect your water pump, however, typically problems will make themselves known by the odd, unusual noises it makes when you turn the water in your camper van on. While you're at it, examine all of your pipes and connections .

Regularly remove and clean the filters in both your interior shower and sink to remove any sediment buildup that has formed during your adventures.

Rixen Heating System Maintenance

Periodically check all connections and connectors for leaks, wear and tear in your Rixen heating system. You should also be running your heater at least once a month all year round to ensure solid functionality throughout your travels.

Also, ensure that all tanks and harware are securely mounted and all hoses are in good condition. Be sure that you are running your heater at least once per month to ensure good functionality of this system.

Electrical System Maintenance

To take the best care of your electrical system, be sure that you are plugging into shore power whenever possible.

Do not let your batteries sit for long periods of time and allow them to discharge. Also, be sure to inspect all connectors, cords, and plugs and look for any signs of damage or overheating.

Class B RV Appliance Maintenance

Now that we've discussed the major systems and chassis maintenance for your off-grid camper van, let's dive into the appliances and how to ensure they live as long as your van does.

Fridge Maintenance

Firstly, check your refrigerator and ensure all vents are clear and free of debris (this is also a great time to clean out that fridge).

While you are cleaning your fridge, be sure to check your freezer as well and ensure that ice is not building up. If ice is building up, it's time to defrost your fridge.

HVAC System Maintenance

To ensure proper functionality of your HVAC systems (including A/C systems and fans) clean the vents and surrounding areas around the unit.

Run your A/C sytem at least once a month to ensure continued, proper functionality.

Other Class B Maintenance to Consider

Roof and Sealants

No one likes a leak. The main way to prevent these leaks, is to inspect your roof and sealants frequently. Make sure there are no gaps, divits or damage in any of your roof sections or any of your sealed areas.

Twice a year (recommended) get on your van roof and inspect all seams, vents, skylights, and solar panels for cracks, peeling, signs of wear, or damage.

If you notice any of these issues on your sealant you can either seal the gaps yourself using an RV specific sealant, or, you can bring your camper van to an RV professional and let them handle any issues they find.

Check Your Awning (If Applicable)

If you have optioned an awning onto your camper van conversion, you'll want to ensure it stays both clean and functional.

If you haven't used your awning in a while, now is the time to ensure smooth extension and retraction before your next trip! For storage, be sure you awning is clean and dry before you park your van.

RV Maintenance Habits for Success

Now that we've gone over some of the specifics, lets get into some of the more general habits for RV maintenance you should start forming.

• Stay on top of cleaning: regular cleaning inside and out is far beyond aesthetics, it can help you locate small issues before they become major problems
  

• If you store your RV outside, be sure to periodically check for rodents, insects, and other pests that may be trying to make a home out of your van

• Winterize and Dewinterize your van to ensure all of your major systems are prepped both for the cold and for your adventures in the summer. If you live in a cold climate, winterization is a non-negotiable maintenance item. This process prevents frozen and burst pipes as well as other expensive water system damage that can occur during freeze thaw cycles. You can learn how to winterize your van here or you can have it done by a local professional.
  

• Keep solid documentation: keep your RV manuals, your system manuals, and create a maintenance log for your van.

• Carry basic tools, fuses, and other common spare parts; you never know when you're going to need them. And as always, its better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

Need Help Staying On Top of Your Van's Maintenance?

Though this may seem like information overload and a bit daunting, don't worry; many of these maintenance items are simple to handle and can be easily DIYd with a bit of guidance. Don't be intimidated by your van: start with the basics and don't hesistate to contact one of our qualified Class B RV technicians at Off Highway Van.

If you already own an Off Highway Van, one of the best things you can do to ensure the longevity of your van build, is to schedule a yearly service inspection. Our team will take your van and handle everything listed above so you can focus on your next adventure.